This is a sponsored article in partnership with Santander Cycles.
With long and warmer Summer days, there has never been a better time to get outdoors and get active.
Do you remember being a kid and receiving your very first bike? Can you remember the overwhelming feeling of joy and freedom that came with having those two wheels at your disposal? Well, it’s time to feel that once again.
For over 200 years, cycling has been one of the best ways to get around. It’s healthy, convenient and, most importantly, it’s fun! So if you’re in London and want to experience life in the capital to the fullest, there’s no better way than on a Santander Cycle.
Londoners have seen Santander Cycles around the city, but now we’re going to show you why these bikes will become your go-to method of travel, and how they’re going to make you fall in love with cycling all over again.
You don’t need to own a bike to enjoy cycling in London - with over 12,000 Santander Cycles at over 750 docking stations throughout the capital, you’re never far from a pair of wheels.
And at just £2 for unlimited journeys up to 30 minutes over 24 hours, Santander Cycles are great value for money.
It’s a gentle and low-impact form of exercise, which can easily be introduced to your daily routine.
Most importantly, let’s discuss how beneficial cycling is to both our physical and mental health.
It is also perfect for any fitness level and any age. Whether you’re a beginner who just wants a leisurely few miles or perhaps you fancy the challenge of a ‘Tour de London’, your workout can be as intense as you like.
Getting fit has never been more fun! Being locked in one place on an exercise bike at your local gym will never compare to the thrill of being outdoors, feeling the wind in on your face, and taking in the sights. And you never have to worry about booking another spin class.
You’ll be boosting your stamina, strength, and aerobic fitness - and because you’ll be enjoying it, you’ll most likely continue to do it.
Research has also shown that aerobic exercises like cycling can have a great impact on our mental wellbeing, it being proven to reduce anxiety and depression.
All you need is the Santander Cycles App to check the live cycle and docking space availability, and your next workout awaits.
With a Santander Cycles membership, you can get access to Santander Cycles faster, and you’ll be able to track your activity and journey history. An annual membership is only £90, which works out to just 25p a day.
Cycling is not only physically and mentally stimulating, but it also allows you to be in full control of your journey.
If you’re en route to meet your friends or you’ve left a little earlier for work, why not take a detour and enjoy that more scenic route along the river?
Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, if you’re ever stuck for inspiration, just hop on a Santander Cycle and enjoy one of the many cycleways across London.
Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a tranquil ride along Regent’s Canal. Or perhaps you’re visiting London and want to take in some of the city’s most iconic sights? In that case, enjoy the 5km ride along the river from the Tower of London to Big Ben.
Cycling around London truly is the best way to see everything the city has to offer.
Santander Cycles is convenient, fun, good for you, and friendly on the wallet!
Free cycle training is available for all abilities. So, whether you're a new or regular cyclist, you can always improve your skills.
With your passion for cycling reignited, it’s time to once again get on the road (or cycle lane), and enjoy the freedom that you first felt as a kid.
You can find out more about Santander Cycles and how to benefit from membership HERE.